The Conway Beach and Marina Project represents one of the most significant redevelopment efforts in the region, converting an industrial site into what officials are calling "the equivalent of a state park in the middle of our downtown."

The Grainger Steam-Electric Generating Station operated from 1966 to 2012 beside U.S. 501 near the Waccamaw River. After the coal-fired plant's closure, Santee Cooper undertook extensive environmental remediation, removing more than a million tons of coal ash and restoring the area's natural wetlands.

The transformation vision began in April 2022, when Conway City Administrator Adam Emrick overlooked the former Coal Ash Pond 1 site. Looking over the land that was now safe for reuse after years of hazardous waste cleanup, he said, "I want this."

City officials plan to build on only about 12 acres of the 530 acre property, preserving the majority for conservation and passive recreation.

The Inland Beach: A man-made beach at the former Coal Ash Pond 1 site will provide safe swimming, canoe and kayak launches, floating docks, and beach amenities for families who prefer not to travel to ocean beaches.

Expanded Marina: A new marina with more than 100 boat slips will significantly expand Conway's current capacity, directly addressing the existing waiting list for boat slips and connecting to the Waccamaw River.

Riverwalk Extension: The project will extend Conway's Riverwalk up to three miles around Lake Busbee, effectively quadrupling the amount of boardwalk available to the public.

Amphitheater: A performance venue near the beach area will host concerts, festivals, and community events.

Mixed-Use Development: Plans include a hotel, shops, restaurants, condominium apartments, and parking facilities to serve visitors and residents.

As a Conway native, I’m thrilled for this project. What could have been an industrial eye-sore is being transformed into something beautiful that generations of people will be able to enjoy. If you have questions about Conway or the surrounding area, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to help!